Clean Air Zones

16 January 2023

A major source of city air pollution is road traffic, particularly nitrogen dioxide from diesel engines. Air pollution affects everyone especially children, the elderly and those with underlying health conditions. To improve the air we breathe and to reduce exposure to nitrogen dioxide, cities across the UK are introducing Clean Air Zones.

Clean Air Zones cover specific locations, restrict the highest polluting vehicles, promote the use of cleaner vehicles, and encourage more people to walk, cycle or use public transport.

This month’s Clean Air Zone Toolbox Talk informs drivers of the latest city developments, the live zones in the UK and proposed upcoming restrictions. It covers:

  • Toxic air pollution and its negative affects
  • Types of Clean Air Zone, their classification, and emissions standards
  • Locations, standards and charges of the specific Clean Air Zones across the UK
  • The expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone to cover all London Boroughs in Autumn 2023

Drivers need to be aware of the importance of environmental protection. They also need to have the right mindset for day-to-day operational constraints that they have no control over. Driving a non-compliant vehicle in a live Clean Air Zone will attract a daily charge and a lack of understanding could result in costly Penalty Charge Notices.